Research Librarian
Standards
Standards are agreed ways of doing things. They may specify the exact physical and/or electronic dimensions and behaviors of something, such as standards for USB-C connections or the Bluetooth communication standard. Building codes give requirements, including materials, dimensions, and methods, for erecting safe buildings. Other standards may specify correct procedures for an activity.
Sources of Standards
Standards are created by many different groups. Companies in an industry may come together to create industry standards. Other standards are created by governmental or quasi-governmental organizations. Professional organizations are also often involved in creating standards. Many times, such groups will work with large standards organizations such as ISO (International Organization for Standards) or ANSI (American National Standards Institute) to publish the standards. In many cases, there is a cost to acquiring a standard.
Finding Standards
The best way to find out about the existence of a standard relevant to your subject is by reading research articles, handbooks, and other works on the subject. Check to see whether they mention standards in their text or references.
Once you have the name of a standard you wish to consult, the first step is to try using a search engine such as Google, to see whether the standard is freely available online. In many cases you will find that the standard is behind a paywall, and will need to turn to library resources. Many standards are available through the library using these databases:
- JumboSearchThe library catalog includes standards the library has in print, as well as standards it has online. It's a good starting point for searching for standards in the library.
- TechstreetTechstreet provides access to standards in a variety of fields. The library only subscribes to some of the standards available through Techstreet, but additional standards can be requested (see below).
- ASTM compassStandards and technical engineering information from ASTM (formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials)
- IEEE Xplore digital libraryIncludes standards in electronics, information technology, power and energy, smart grid, telecommunications, and other fields.
Requesting Standards
If the library doesn't have a standard you need for your work, you can request the standard, and in many cases the library can acquire it.
One way to request a standard is to email the engineering librarian (see box on the left).
Another way to request a standard is through the Techstreet Enterprise database (see link above). Create a (free) account in the database, and uncheck the "On Subscription" box on the left of the search results page. This will allow you to see standards available through Techstreet but not part of the library's current subscription. When you find a standard you need that isn't in the subscription, there will be a button to request the standard. Clicking the button will notify the library of your request for the standard.